LAWYERS acting for axed Storm coach Terry Christensen are to launch legal proceedings against the club.

Christensen had one year left on his contract plus an option for another year - which he took up - before he was sacked last month.

Solicitor Tony Dempsey, of Wacks Caller, said a writ was being issued as he believed no progress had been made to settle Christensen's contract and his client was still out of work.

Christensen's contract was terminated last month following the worst season in the Storm's six-year history. He has now returned home to Florida where he has been linked with other coaching jobs.

compensation

Storm owner Gary Cowan says he has made Christensen an offer of compensation but has had no response. He will contest any legal proceedings. ''Both me and my legal team are looking at several issues raised over the last six months concerning Mr Christensen,'' he said.

Salford businessman Cowan, a Storm fan, took control of the club in May after American owners SMG - who run the Manchester Evening News Arena - decided to pull out.

Meanwhile, Cowan has also spoken out to quell the unrest among fans about the future of the Superleague with clouds hanging over Sheffield Steelers and Cardiff Devils.

A court case involving the Steelers and the consortium of Sheffield businessmen who bailed out the club towards the end of last season has now been resolved in favour of the Superleague.

The franchise's new owners are expected to be announced within days.

''Our hands were tied because the judge said that no announcements were to be made,'' said Cowan.

''But now Superleague has won the case, the identity of the new owner will be released very soon and it's good news for ice hockey.''